Head of Specialist Adult Services (LDAN & Community Services)

Head of Specialist Adult Services (LDAN & Community Services)

📍 Location: This is a remote role, but you should be based in and around areas such as Bath, Bristol, Oxford, Wiltshire and Gloucestershire as there is travel to multiple sites.

💼 This is a permanent position; however, if you are seeking an immediate start in an interim role for a minimum of three months, we would also encourage you to apply.

💰 Salary: £79K to £91K DOE

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced and dynamic Head of Specialist Adult Services to lead a diverse portfolio of services supporting adults with learning disabilities, autism, and complex needs.

This is a senior leadership role with full accountability for operational performance, service quality, financial recovery, and transformation delivery. You will play a key part in shaping services that are safe, effective, and person-centred, while driving continuous improvement and sustainable growth.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Service Delivery

Provide strategic and operational leadership across specialist adult services, including LDAN and community provision
Take accountability for service quality, safety, and patient experience across the portfolio
Build and lead high-performing, multi-disciplinary teams through visible and values-driven leadership
Ensure strong governance frameworks, including risk management, escalation processes, and performance monitoring
Represent services at system level, working with commissioners and key stakeholders

Financial Performance

Lead financial recovery plans and maintain overall budget accountability
Analyse and respond to financial and activity data, working closely with finance partners
Identify and deliver cost improvement opportunities without compromising care quality
Provide clear and accurate financial reporting to senior leadershipTransformation & Development

Drive service transformation programmes that are clinically led and evidence based
Support integrated working across NHS, local authorities, and voluntary sector partners
Identify opportunities to expand and develop services in line with local need and commissioning priorities
Contribute to service redesign, contract mobilisation, and TUPE processes where requiredSpecialist Services (LDAN)

Lead services supporting individuals with learning disabilities, autism, and neurodevelopmental conditions
Ensure compliance with CQC standards and relevant regulatory frameworks
Oversee workforce planning, training compliance, and professional standards
Champion co-production, personalisation, and improved outcomes for people with complex needsPeople & Culture

Recruit, develop, and retain a motivated and high-performing workforce
Lead performance management processes, including appraisals and objective setting
Manage complex people matters in partnership with HR
Foster a culture of inclusion, psychological safety, and continuous learningAbout You

We're looking for a confident and values-driven leader with a strong track record in complex health or care environments.

Essential

Significant senior operational management experience in community health, mental health, or specialist adult services
Proven experience delivering financial recovery and cost improvement programmes
Strong background in leading transformation and service improvement
Experience working with LDAN, complex care, or similar specialist services
Excellent stakeholder management skills across NHS, local authority, and third sector partners
Strong understanding of CQC, governance, and regulatory requirementsQualifications

Degree-level education or equivalent professional qualification in health or care
Evidence of ongoing professional development
Leadership qualification or equivalent experience (desirable)
Professional registration (desirable, depending on background)Skills

Excellent financial and analytical capability
Strong leadership, communication, and influencing skills
Ability to lead through complexity and deliver results under pressure
Passion for person-centred care and equality, diversity, and inclusionWhy Join Us?

Opportunity to shape and lead high-impact specialist services
Visible senior leadership role with system-level influence
Supportive and collaborative working culture
Real opportunity to deliver meaningful change and improve lives👉 Apply now to be part of a forward-thinking organisation committed to delivering high-quality, person-centred care.

Please be aware this advert will remain open until the vacancy has been filled. Interviews will take place throughout this period, therefore we encourage you to apply early to avoid disappointment.

Tate is acting as an Employment Business in relation to this vacancy.

Tate is committed to promoting equal opportunities. To ensure that every candidate has the best experience with us, we encourage you to let us know if there are any adjustments we can make during the application or interview process. Your comfort and accessibility are our priority, and we are here to support you every step of the way. Additionally, we value and respect your individuality, and we invite you to share your preferred pronouns in your application